To protect your data, start with four habits: use unique, long passwords; turn on multifactor authentication (MFA); install software updates; and recognize and report phishing. These are the core priorities in the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure Our World guidance. The 15 habits below extend those basics to devices, backups, privacy, and shared networks. They are a practical checklist, not a formal CISA ranking or a guarantee against every threat.
1. Use a password manager for unique passwords
A password manager can generate and store a different, random password for every account, so one exposed password is less likely to put other accounts at risk. CISA’s 2024 Secure Our World tip sheet recommends passwords of at least 16 characters, random and unique for each account.
When choosing a manager, consider whether it works on all your devices, how account and vault recovery work, whether it supports MFA for the vault, and how much you trust its developer. Cloud syncing is convenient; a locally maintained vault may require more attention to backups and access across devices.
2. Turn on multifactor authentication
MFA requires an additional factor beyond your password. Enable it first on email, financial, social, shopping, and other important accounts. Email deserves priority because it is often used to reset passwords elsewhere. CISA describes MFA as “a layered approach to securing your online accounts and the data they contain” in its More than a Password guidance.
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Where a service supports it, a physical security key is a strong option; an authenticator app is another. MFA methods do not offer identical protection: security keys are designed to resist phishing better than codes that can be entered into a fraudulent site. Before relying on a key, check that your account, devices, and connection method (such as USB or NFC) support it, and set up a recovery method or spare key so losing one does not lock you out.
3. Install updates promptly
Install updates for your operating system, browser, and apps when they become available. Turn on automatic updates where you can, and restart devices when needed to complete installation. Updates can include security fixes; delaying them leaves known issues unaddressed for longer.
4. Pause before opening unexpected messages
Do not rush to click a link or open an attachment in an unexpected message, even if it appears to come from a familiar organization. Be especially cautious when a message creates urgency, asks for personal information, or offers something that seems too good to be true. Go to the organization’s site or app directly instead of following a message link.
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5. Report suspected phishing and verify urgent requests
Use the email or messaging service’s report-phishing control, then delete the message; do not reply or engage. If a message asks you to transfer money, change payment details, or act urgently on an account, verify it through a separate channel you already know, such as a trusted phone number—not contact details supplied in the message.
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Replace factory-default administrator passwords on your home router and connected devices with unique passwords. For Wi-Fi equipment, make sure the administrator password used to manage settings is not the default; it is distinct from the password you give people to join the network. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for changing both where appropriate.
7. Lock your phones and computers
Set a strong passcode or equivalent screen lock on phones and computers, and configure the device to lock when idle. Do not share your unlock code casually. A screen lock helps keep someone with physical access from immediately opening your apps and files.
Rank #3
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8. Encrypt devices and sensitive files carefully
Encryption helps protect data stored on a device, removable drive, or in a sensitive file if someone gains access to the storage. Use the device’s built-in encryption where available, and consider file-level encryption for especially sensitive material. Before enabling encryption, back up the data and securely save the recovery key or password somewhere separate from the encrypted device; otherwise, a forgotten credential or device failure could make the data inaccessible.
CISA’s How to Protect the Data that is Stored on Your Devices advises users to “Frequently back up your data to reduce the risk of permanent data loss.”
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9. Back up important files and test recovery
Back up important files regularly to a vetted cloud service or an external drive. After using an external drive, disconnect it and store it safely; leaving it connected can expose it to some of the same ransomware or other damage affecting the computer. Check periodically that you can actually restore files from your chosen backup. A backup that cannot be recovered is not a useful safety net.
Rank #4
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10. Use a standard account for everyday computer work
When your computer allows it, use a standard, non-administrator account for routine tasks such as browsing and email. Keep a separate administrator account for installing software or changing system settings, and elevate privileges only when necessary. This reduces the authority of routine activity without removing your ability to maintain the computer.
11. Install apps cautiously and review permissions
Get apps from official app stores or the software maker’s own site, rather than unfamiliar download links. Check the permissions an app requests and consider whether they make sense for its function. Remove apps you no longer use, since unused software may still hold data or retain access to device features.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.12. Limit what you share publicly
Share less personal information in public profiles and posts. Review each service’s audience, location-sharing, and profile-visibility controls, and adjust them to match what you intend others to see. Settings and their names vary by service, so review them in the account you use rather than assuming one platform’s controls apply everywhere.
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13. Review account recovery, sessions, and alerts
Periodically check that important accounts have current recovery email addresses and phone numbers, review active sessions or signed-in devices, and enable useful security alerts. Sign out sessions you do not recognize and update recovery details when they change. There is no universal review interval; revisit these settings when account details change or an alert gives you a reason to investigate.
14. Keep built-in security protections enabled
Leave the security protections built into your operating system and devices enabled, and keep them updated. CISA’s older digital-home guidance mentions antivirus software, while its newer Secure Our World materials emphasize habits such as updates, backups, encryption, and phishing awareness. A paid third-party security suite is not established as a requirement for every consumer; choose additional tools based on your devices and needs rather than assuming a purchase is essential.
15. Be careful on shared networks and devices
Use a trusted connection for sensitive tasks when practical. On a shared or public computer, do not save passwords, sign out of accounts when finished, and close the session. A VPN is not a promise that browsing is safe; it does not replace cautious account, device, and network practices.
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